Sally Buffalo Park Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sally Buffalo Park Lake Dam, located in Oak Park, Ohio, is a vital structure managed by the local government for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 36.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 223.2 acre-feet, providing ample space for leisure activities and water-based recreation. However, despite its significance for the community, the dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition with a high hazard potential, raising concerns about its long-term safety and the need for maintenance.
Managed by the Department of Natural Resources, this dam is regulated and inspected by the state to ensure compliance with safety standards. The dam's location near the tributary to Sally Buffalo Creek adds to its ecological importance, highlighting the interconnectedness of water resources in the region. Despite its poor condition assessment, the dam remains a key feature for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates, serving as a focal point for recreation and environmental stewardship efforts in the area.
Given its historical significance and potential risks associated with its current condition, Sally Buffalo Park Lake Dam presents a dual challenge for authorities and stakeholders. As efforts continue to address the dam's maintenance needs and mitigate potential hazards, it also remains a symbol of community resilience and the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change. Whether through restoration initiatives or enhanced safety measures, the future of this dam will likely depend on collaborative efforts to preserve its recreational value while safeguarding the surrounding environment for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
36.5 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO SALLY BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Drainage Area |
0.45 |
Nid Storage |
223.2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Sally Buffalo Park Lake Dam